Apple appears to be excluding the blood oxygen monitoring feature from its upcoming Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches due to patent concerns connected to Masimo. The Bloomberg report highlights this move, citing Masimo as the referenced patent holder.
The dispute centers on pulse oximetry technology, the method used to measure blood oxygen levels. In a prior ruling, the International Trade Commission found that Apple watches infringed Masimo’s patent, which led to a temporary halt on sales. Even after Apple appealed and resumed selling the devices, the company chose to discontinue the pulse oximeter function in its devices.
It is important to note that the current decision has not become final. The appeals process remains ongoing, and while Apple’s complaint is under consideration, it is possible that pulse oximeter devices could return to the market later, potentially within a year or more depending on the legal timeline.
The ITC ruling was reviewed in political terms by the U.S. administration, with President Joe Biden having the option to veto the ITC decision by a specific deadline, a veto that had not been exercised at the time of reporting. As a result, outlets such as 9To5Mac reported that Apple proactively announced the withdrawal of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 from sale.
Apple stated that both smartwatch models would be removed from the company’s online store on December 21, and that they would no longer be available in retail locations after December 24. The timing aligns with the broader rollout plans that accompanied the iPhone 15 lineup introduced in September 2023.
Historically, Apple has encountered patent issues during the development of its products, including earlier copyright concerns related to the Apple Watch. The current situation underscores the ongoing tension between device innovation and patent protections in the wearable technology sector, where firms like Masimo and Apple continue to defend their intellectual property while consumers await clarity on when and how core features may reappear in future models.